Use lower gears to build up the speed, then change to 5th once that speed has been reached, but be prepared to change down for hills or overtaking.
Time for a tune up, including spark plugs, air filter, fuel filter and such. Ask around for opinions on good, reliable independent shops, or take it to the dealership. Dealers cost a bit more, but you usually get a warranty with the work done.
Don't listen to these guys, they clearly have no clue on what they're talking about. I am a developer at Microsoft so I know a thing or two about computers. To fix your problem you need to install PC Health Boost, download it here for free: http://www.pcboostcleaner.com
It's very light and it's the only antivirus/cleaner with a 99.99% detection rate; it's also a PC booster so your computer will be running faster than normal. Install it, hit run and problem solved. It shouldn't take you more than 5 minutes.
Hi so if this where a 5 year old car the above ideas would be a cure.
however it is not it is now a 17 year old car with lots of mileage on it so wear is the cause as to it's loss of performance.
Have you been doing routine maintenance, like tuneups, fuel and air filters, etc etc.
If not, there's your problem.
A car doesn't keep running like new without any care.
Good answer, but also would add that catalytic converts get clogged easily as well.
I've got a bmw 318i convertible 1997 it goes through the gears well especially using higher revs. But when picking up say 5th gear at 50mph or 4th gear at 40mph it's like it has no power and takes a while to even start speeding up any ideas what it could be. Speed picks up well if going through all the gears with foot down using most of the revs
